Tragic Crash in Gujarat! Indian Coast Guard ALH Plunges in Porbandar, 3 Killed

Coast Guard Helicopter Crash: A tragic accident struck the Indian Coast Guard on Sunday when an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv crashed during a routine training sortie in Gujarat's Porbandar. The devastating crash claimed the lives of three crew members aboard the aircraft, including two pilots.

Routine Training Turns Fatal

The helicopter was conducting a routine training mission when it encountered technical difficulties at approximately 12:10 PM. Officials confirmed the crash occurred near the Coast Guard Air Enclave in Porbandar.

#WATCH | Gujarat: Indian Coast Guard ALH Dhruv crashed in Porbandar, Gujarat during a routine training sortie.

(Visuals from Bhavsinhji Civil Hospital in Porbandar) https://t.co/XyM9Hatola pic.twitter.com/GjKLKWOKIn

— ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2025

Porbandar Superintendent of Police Bhagirathsinh Jadeja shared that the chopper crashed close to the runway and caught fire. Emergency responders, including a fire tender, quickly brought the blaze under control.

Lives Lost in the Coast Guard Helicopter Crash

All three crew members onboard suffered severe burns and were rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Tragically, two of them were declared dead upon arrival. The third crew member, initially found alive, succumbed to injuries later, as confirmed by Inspector Rajesh Kanmiya of the Kamala Baug police station.

Investigation Underway

The Indian Coast Guard has launched a thorough investigation into the Coast Guard helicopter crash to determine the exact cause of the incident. This tragic event comes amidst ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and reliability of the ALH Dhruv fleet.

Safety Concerns Around the ALH Dhruv

The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has faced scrutiny over its safety record. A series of accidents last year led to multiple groundings of the Dhruv fleet. HAL implemented a critical safety upgrade, including an improved control system, to address the design issues and enhance the fleet's airworthiness.

The Coast Guard helicopter crash in Porbandar raises fresh concerns over the reliability of the upgraded system, despite assurances that these improvements would boost safety.